Lexus UX Concept Revealed Ahead of its Paris Debut

Compact crossover would slot below NX

Compact crossover would slot below NX

Set to make its debut at the 2016 Paris Motor Show is the Lexus UX concept, which appears to be a subcompact crossover aimed to slot below the NX.

Lexus made the announced today after a leaked photo of the UX concept appeared on numerous websites. Lexus’s European Design Center penned the UX concept, which showcases edgy styling the automaker has been infusing through much of its lineup. Sharp angles dominate the concept, including its fenders, the C-pillar, and taillights. Other notable touches include the door handle that appears to intersect the front and rear doors, and the strips of LEDs used for the third brake light mounted high on the rear spoiler.

Should the UX concept make it to production, it’ll likely ride on the Toyota New Global Architecture, which debuted on the fourth-gen Prius and will underpin the upcoming Toyota C-HR small crossover. That means powertrain choices should include both a conventional gas engine and a hybrid system. Speculation also suggests the UX will likely replace the CT 200h hatchback, which is nearing the end of its life cycle. Sales of the CT continue to dwindle, but that isn’t the case for Lexus crossovers including the NX and RX, which makes the case stronger for adding the UX to the brand’s lineup where it would compete against other luxury subcompact crossovers like the Audi Q2, BMW X1, and Mercedes-Benz GLA.